Scientists at The University of Nottingham have found that a group of genetic rogue elements, produced by DNA sequences commonly known as ‘junk DNA’, could help diagnose breast and bowel cancer. Their research, funded by Cancer Research UK, is published in this month’s Genomics journal.

You’ll find many UK universities working in the fascinating field of stem cell research, but few can boast the multidisciplinary skills, cohesiveness and facilities of The University of Nottingham’s new Wolfson Centre for Stem Cells, Tissue Engineering and Modelling (STEM). Vision takes a look at how this unique set-up is leading to innovative research and incredible breakthroughs.

Few archaeological sites in the world evoke such a sense of awe as the ancient Temple of Diana at Nemi in Italy. It’s a place that already has a special connection with Nottinghamshire, as it was first excavated in 1885 by the British Ambassador Lord John Savile who was from the region.

Environmental damage is threatening ecosystems’ ability to provide the things we take for granted – from clean air and water to food, fuel and shelter – with major implications for human well-being and the world’s economy. At the interface of science and policy, The University of Nottingham’s Centre for Environmental Management gives government bodies the evidence they need to make tough decisions…

Atoms 10 billion times colder than the Arctic are unlocking the secrets of quantum mechanics and could lead to the next range of innovative technological devices. Now, in a major joint venture, the Universities of Nottingham and Birmingham are setting up a new centre dedicated to research in the exciting area of ultracold atoms.

You wouldn’t exactly call Professor Tom Cox – Professor of Organisational Psychology and Head of the Institute of Work, Health and Organisations (IWHO) – a newcomer to The University of Nottingham. ‘I must be one of the longest serving members of the University,’ he laughs. ‘I first came here in 1966 as an undergraduate before eventually becoming Head of the School of Psychology and then setting up and running IWHO. Apart from secondments, I have been here most of my working life and still enjoy it.’

Turning blue-sky engineering research into commercially viable industrial applications is not always easy. Now a new Centre of Excellence in Customised Assembly is bridging the gap and attracting a host of national and international companies. Vision takes a closer look…